Automation is the key to successful backup strategies. People, no matter how well intentioned, are usually not disciplined enough to keep things seemless.

Here is my Plan A,B,C,D & E. Zero intervention by me, except to make sure it is working.

Our business is all on computers, so I am a little paranoid...

Plan A: Our server is RAID5. Spare drives are standing by.

Plan B: Every day, our main server backups up to a second RAID5 server that is enabled to run our business at a moments notice. We also have backup Internet service.

Plan C: Every day, our main server is backed up to a large portable HD that is strategically located near the exit where I would be leaving in case of an emergency....my GRAB-N-GO hard drive.

Plan D: Every day our main server is backed up to a third RAID5 server located in another building on our property about 500' away from the main building(house) where the BO-RV is stored. This server can be ready to go at a moments notice too and is permanently installed in our BO-RV. When we vacation, we run our business from this server on the road.

Plan E: We use an on-line service.

All of the systems are e-mail enabled to notify me of problems. Backup jobs run at different times throughout the day.

The online backup service is the belt worn with suspenders...